AICTE Saksham Scholarship: Supporting Specially-Abled Students in Technical Education

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship Scheme is a commendable initiative by the Ministry of Education, implemented by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). It aims to provide financial assistance to specially-abled students who are pursuing technical education, ensuring that physical challenges do not become an obstacle to professional growth and higher learning.

What is this scheme?

The Saksham Scholarship is designed specifically for students with disabilities to encourage them to pursue technical degrees and diplomas. By covering tuition fees and providing a monthly allowance for incidental expenses, the scheme fosters inclusivity in professional sectors like Engineering, Architecture, Pharmacy, and Applied Arts.

Who is eligible?

• The candidate must be an Indian National.
• The student must have a disability of not less than 40%.
• The student must be admitted to the first year (or second year via lateral entry) of a degree or diploma program in an AICTE-approved institution.
• Family income from all sources should not exceed INR 8 lakh per annum during the current financial year.
• The candidate must not be a recipient of any other Central or State Government scholarship.

How much money?

Eligible students receive a consolidated amount of INR 50,000 for every year of study as a lumpsum amount towards payment of college fees, purchase of computer, stationeries, books, equipment, and software. No additional allowances are paid.

Documents needed

1. Mark sheet of standard X/XII or equivalent.
2. A valid Disability Certificate issued by a competent government medical authority.
3. Annual Family Income Certificate for the preceding financial year issued by an officer not below the rank of Tehsildar.
4. Admission letter issued by the Centralized Admission Authority.
5. Tuition fee receipt paid for the current academic year.
6. Bank Passbook linked with Aadhaar showing Account Number, IFSC code, and Photograph.
7. Aadhaar Card.
8. Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC) if applicable.

How to apply (step by step)

1. Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) official website.
2. Click on 'New Registration' and read the guidelines carefully.
3. Register using your mobile number, email ID, and Aadhaar details to generate a Student ID.
4. Login to the portal using the permanent ID and password.
5. Select the 'AICTE Saksham Scholarship' under the 'Department of Higher Education' or 'AICTE' section.
6. Fill in all personal, academic, and bank details accurately.
7. Upload the scanned copies of required documents.
8. Submit the application and take a printout for future reference.
9. The application will be verified online by the respective institution and then by the AICTE nodal officer.

Important dates

Conclusion

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship is more than just financial aid; it is a gateway to empowerment for differently-abled students in India. By reducing the financial burden on families and providing the resources needed for technical training, the scheme helps create a level playing field. Eligible students are encouraged to apply through the NSP portal well within the deadlines to secure their academic future.